Franchise Manuals and Operating Systems

The basis of franchising is that a franchisor proves a business model, develops it into an operating system and then details it in a franchise manual as a template for its franchisees to follow.  Therefore, the franchise manual is absolutely core to the success of any franchise system.

In addition, the franchise manual has important legal significance. The franchise agreement refers to the manual and it is essential that the two documents are consistent.  Also, in the event of dispute with a franchisee it of course very helpful to have the operating system documented. However, despite its practical and legal importance, franchisors rarely pay enough attention to the content of their franchise manuals.

For new franchisors, it is obviously important to start out with a comprehensive franchise manual. For existing franchisors the reasons for updating the manual are less pressing, but no less important.

Franchise systems never remain static – in fact franchisors have a duty to enhance their operating systems over time. As franchise systems mature the operating system will develop, the legal agreement may change, the profile and nature of the franchisee business may change and the overall culture of the system may evolve.

Therefore, the content of the franchise manual can quickly get outdated.

The Franchise Development Centre works with many companies, established and new, to ensure that their franchise manuals meet operational and legal requirements. The process varies from client to client, but can be anything from just a review of the existing franchise manual to a complete rewrite.

Why use The Franchise Development Centre?

• We bring a breadth of knowledge and experience of franchise manuals that ensures a comprehensive end product. 
• Clients benefit from an outside view of their business. 
• The process is quick and efficient – no more staring at blank computer screens wondering where to begin.
• We drive the process - it gets done!

Talk to our team of experts at The Franchise Development Centre - fill out the contact form below for further information.